Adelaide figure skating coach Melissa Tyson to compete in Australian Supermodel of the Year

“You don’t need the abs, you don’t need to be super crazy lean.” Former Adelaide figure skater Melissa Tyson is changing how people see body image.

Antimo Iannella

The AdvertiserJanuary 28, 20196:30am

Figure skater coach Melissa Tyson with protege Kalia. Melissa will compete in the Australian Supermodel of the year finals in Bali next week. Picture: Mariana MatosSource:News Corp Australia

Former Adelaide figure skater Melissa Tyson is hoping to put a new spin on body image when she vies for glory in the Australian Supermodel of the Year finals in Bali.

Ms Tyson, who spent two decades competing on the ice and is now a figure skating coach, was selected as a finalist in the event’s “Fit” category.

She said she wants to use next week’s competition to change “stereotypes of what a fit model and athlete is”.

“I’ve found through my sporting and coaching experiences, sport can bring about eating disorders or a warped perception of body image, especially when they hit the teenage years,” said Ms Tyson, 26, who was also a 2017 Miss Universe SA state finalist.

“You don’t need the abs, you don’t need to be super crazy lean … you don’t have to go to the extreme. When it comes to sport, it’s not about who looks the skinniest.

“I’m working hard to be a positive influence and to change that mindset as they grow older.

“I would really like to be a good role model for all the girls coming through and to spread that positive message.”

As part of the competition, Ms Tyson, of Clearview, is raising funds for The Butterfly Foundation, which supports people affected by eating disorders and negative body image issues.

“It’s something that really resonates with me and my background,” said Ms Tyson, who also plays state-level ice hockey.

“I’m pretty excited about the event, it should be a lot of fun, and I’ve never been to Bali before.”

Founded by Adelaide’s Jess Davis, the annual modelling contest also features categories including “Curve”, “Teen” and “Male” Supermodel of the Year, as well as an overall section.

Finalists from all over Australia will be judged on personality, photographic presence and catwalk skills over an intense finals week, with winners taking home a share in more than $8000 cash and prizes.

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